How to Sharpen Scissors with a Knife Sharpener Rod

It’s happened to all of us. We’re in the middle of a project, and our scissors get dull. Suddenly, we’re unable to cut through the fabric or paper like we used to. So instead of throwing out your old scissors and buying new ones, why not try sharpening them with a knife sharpener rod?

It’s not hard to sharpen scissors with a knife sharpener rod if you know how to do it properly. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to get those blades razor sharp in no time!

What type of scissors can you sharpen with a knife sharpening rod?

The good news is that you can sharpen most scissors with a knife sharpening rod. This includes both fabric and paper scissors.

However, there are a few exceptions. For example, if your scissors have serrated blades or are made of hardened steel, you will not be able to sharpen them with a knife sharpener rod.

Now you know what scissors you can sharpen with a knife sharpener rod. 

Let’s get to the sharpening process.

Things you’ll need to sharpen scissors with a rod

Before doing anything, you must gather the following materials:

  • A knife sharpener rod (aff link)
  • A pair of scissors
  • A cloth or towel
  • Some oil (optional)

Now that you have all the materials let’s get to the next part!

The sharpening process – step by step

Just follow this guide carefully, and you’ll have your scissors sharpened in no time:


Step One: Place the scissors on a flat surface. Ensure the tip is protected, so you don’t damage it.

Step two: Insert the knife sharpener rod into the blade of the scissors (as shown in the image below).

The sharpening process of a scissors

Step three: Apply pressure to the scissors’ handle and slide the knife sharpener rod back and forth through the blade. Do this about 15-20 times.

Step four: Wipe the blades of the scissors clean with a cloth or towel.

Step five: (Optional) Apply a drop of oil to the blades and wipe away any excess. This will help to keep the scissors from rusting.

And there you have it! You’ve successfully sharpened your scissors with a knife sharpener rod.

Tips for keeping your scissors sharp

Now that you know how to sharpen scissors with a knife sharpener rod, here are some tips to keep them from getting dull in the first place:

Always use sharp blades: If your scissors start to get dull, don’t wait until they’re entirely useless to sharpen them. The sooner you take care of it, the better.

Store your scissors properly: After every use, make sure to clean and oil your scissors (if desired) before storing them away. It’s also a good idea to keep them in a sheath or bag to protect the blades.

Avoid cutting through rigid materials: If you’re constantly cutting through thick fabric or paper, it will take a toll on your scissors. Instead, use a rotary cutter or x-acto knife for these materials whenever possible.

By following these simple tips, you can extend the life of your scissors and save yourself some money in the long run!

FAQs about knife sharpener rods

Still, have some questions about how to sharpen scissors with a knife sharpener rod? We’ve got you covered.

Can I use any knife sharpener rod?

Yes, you can use any knife sharpener rod. However, we recommend using a diamond or ceramic knife sharpener rod for best results.


Can I sharpen both fabric and paper scissors with a knife sharpener rod?

Yes, you can sharpen most scissors with a knife sharpener rod. There are a few exceptions, such as serrated blades or hardened steel.


Do I need to oil my scissors after sharpening them?

No, you don’t need to oil your scissors after sharpening them. However, it’s a good idea if you want to prevent rusting.